Items filtered by date: August 2023

Onychomycosis, a fungal infection that primarily targets the nails of the toes, arises from diverse fungal sources, which can complicate effective treatment. Fortunately, a number of remedies are available to help combat this issue and restore healthy nails. Toenail fungal infections can lead to symptoms such as thickened, discolored, and deformed nails, causing discomfort and embarrassment. Topical medications, including antifungal nail polish, creams, and ointments, can be applied directly to the affected nail. For more severe infections, prescribed oral medications work from within to eliminate the underlying infection. Although they may require several weeks or even months of treatment, they offer better results for stubborn cases. Laser therapy is a less invasive option, which involves using a laser to target and destroy the fungal cells within the nail. In extreme cases, when the infection is particularly resistant or has caused significant damage, surgical removal of the affected nail may be necessary. This involves extracting the entire nail or a portion of it. If you have a fungal toenail infection that is not responding to common treatments, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for additional options.

For more information about treatment, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops during childhood years. The arch runs lengthwise along the bottom of the foot, and it may not become developed in adults for various reasons. These may include genetic reasons, or it may not form if an injury has occurred. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions which may cause flat feet, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes. Many people do not have pain with flat feet, and there are some patients who have pain from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. There may also be changes in the work environment, which may involve standing on different surfaces. There are specific stretches that can be performed which may help people who have flat feet. A calf stretch can be effective in strengthening the lower part of the leg. This is done by standing on a step and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe custom-made orthotics for relief, if needed. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.